Pavel Hortek, the legendary former team manager of Škoda Motorsport, has passed away at the age of 76. His death marks the end of an era for one of rallying’s most respected figures, whose influence on Škoda’s motorsport success spanned more than two decades.
Hortek’s connection with rallying began behind the wheel as a co-driver, and he joined Škoda in 2001, just as the brand was establishing itself as a dominant force in global rally competition. Soon, he became the cornerstone of Škoda’s rallying program, working closely alongside key figures such as motorsport director Michal Hrabánek and others to elevate the team’s status on the world stage.
Under Hortek’s guidance, Škoda developed a string of highly successful rally cars — from the Fabia S2000 to the Rally2 machine — that set benchmarks in their respective classes for performance and reliability. For more than a decade, these cars were among the most dominant and respected entries in international rallying.
Those who knew him remember Hortek as much for his character as for his expertise. He was revered for his attention to detail, calm under pressure, and a deep passion for the sport and his city of Prague, where he often met friends and colleagues over coffee and conversation.
One poignant memory shared in the article recalls Hortek talking about negotiations with motorsport figures like David Richards and the late Colin McRae — moments that revealed both his love for rallying and his warmth as a companion.
Škoda Motorsport described Hortek as an integral part of its history, whose work contributed to some of the greatest achievements in the team’s long legacy. He leaves behind profound respect within the rally community and a lasting impact on motorsport as a whole.
Photo Credits: Skoda Motorsport
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